Borderers are being urged to get behind the campaign to stop RBS branch closures in the region as a series of public meetings are set to take place.
Organised by John Lamont MP and Rachael Hamilton MSP, the meetings will take place in Duns, Hawick and Melrose all on Friday 9th February.
They are intended to provide concerned residents and businesses with more information about what can be done to oppose the closures as well as what support there is available for those who might be affected.
Representatives from the Post Office, Citizens Advice Scotland, Business Gateway and local community councils will be on hand to provide information.
Speaking ahead of the meetings, Rachael Hamilton MSP said: “Businesses in the Borders are faced with yet another set back, this time with bank closures from RBS.
“I don’t believe RBS have fully thought through the impact to traders and businesses who transact in cash and cheques.
“Forcing local businesses to bank online is all very well, but digital connectivity is patchy and cannot be relied upon.
“Post Office replacement services are welcome, but most have relocated to local convenience stores which doesn’t exactly provide a professional and discreet environment for business banking.”
John Lamont MP said: “I am strongly opposed to these plans by RBS, and was less than impressed with the excuses they gave to the Scottish Affairs Committee.
“This is going to hugely impact on vulnerable customers and local community organisations who rely on the face to face service you get at a local bank branch.
“These meetings are a chance for people to get involved in the campaign against the closures, but they are also an opportunity to hear about what support there is available for those who might be affected.
John added: “While this is a commercial decision for RBS to defend, I do think the UK Government needs to be firmer with the bank. It is time the Prime Minister dragged the boss of RBS into Number 10 to make it clear these closures are the wrong decision and need to be reconsidered.”